flux

flux

Something about yourself

abstract

Since its inception, human-computer interfaces have largely mimicked the
physical world: functional, analog objects like telephones, cameras,
calculators, notebooks found their digital twins in applications.
New technologies inherit the burden of legacy as the desktop metaphor
carries forward.

In our attention economy where devices monopolize our time, the fundamental
interfaces of our primary computing devices — smartphones — have stagnated.
Despite advancements like voice assistants and dynamic widgets and now AI,
the core interaction model has remained unchanged for nearly two decades.

What if our devices were not merely vessels for apps competing for attention,
but companions optimized to support our individual goals and freedom?

This project explores the future of human-computer interaction in an AI-first
world, challenging the static, app-centric paradigms with dynamic, goal-oriented
interfaces. Existing solutions such as upcoming next-gen AI devices envision
a post-interface reality by rejecting current UI principles.

Instead, this project conceptualizes how AI can fundamentally alter our interaction
with technology, and liberate us by giving us back our time and freedom.

challenges in the attention economy

Computer-mediated technology has profoundly
changed the world as we know it. These changes
- from transforming communication to simplifying
access to the sum total of human knowledge -
are largely positive. However, in the era of
social media and increasingly immersive yet
intrusive technology, it's essential to remain
cognizant of how our societies and minds are
impacted by these changes.

In this new economy, our attention, time and
personal data are commodified by profit-seeking
marketers. We're spending more time staring at
phone screens and scrolling through feeds and
less time being present, engaging and connecting
thoughtfully with each other.

limitations of existing solutions

Current solutions of dumbphones like Techless and distraction-restricting apps such as Brick and Opal address the issue of increased screen time in the attention economy by rejecting and completely blocking out apps deemed distracting or introducing additional friction to access them. These approaches aim to minimize screen time and reduce interruptions by limiting the functionalities of modern smartphones.

Upcoming next-gen AI devices envision a post-interface reality, moving away from traditional graphical user interfaces and rejecting current UI principles in favor of operating primarily through voice assistants. These innovations aim to reduce dependency on screens and create a more seamless interaction with technology to usher in the era of ambient computing.

However, both existing and next-gen solutions have drawbacks. Completely removing functionality with dumbphones feels like a step back and deprives users of the benefits that come with technological advancements. Additionally, the new first-generation AI devices are not capable of fully replacing smartphones as standalone devices in there current state, limiting their practicality and widespread adoption. Relying primarily on voice interactions and the lack of visual interface adds additional friction which detrimentally impacts the usability.

Flux seeks to bridge these gaps by conceptualizing how AI can alter our interaction with technology. Instead of restricting access or eliminating screens, this project envisions leveraging AI to create a more dynamic and empowering user experience. Flux explores a speculative OS interface with a dynamic, evolving and flexible UX.

what if…?